If your home wasn’t built in the last decade or so, you’re likely looking at a roof replacement in your near future. It can seem daunting, both in the costs and in the magnitude of the project. The roof replacement cost can be affected by a number of factors.
Roofing is a project that’s best done by professionals. This adds to the initial roof replacement cost but will prevent future costs from damages caused by improper installation. An improperly installed roof can lead to damaged attic insulation, waterlogged walls, cracked foundations, and water damage throughout the home.
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Roof Replacement Cost Breakdown
Roofing contractors will break down the costs into several categories. The main categories that can affect the cost of your roof replacement are the
- Size, pitch, and height of your roof
- Cost of removing the old roof
- Materials your select for your new roof
- Extent of underlying damage in the decking and rafters.
Calculating the Size, Pitch, and Height of Your Roof
Your contractor will calculate the size of your roof based on measurements taken at your consultation, and use these numbers to estimate the square footage of coverage they’ll need for materials. This can be affected by how many times the direction of your roof changes. Every time your roof comes to an intersection with another section of the roof, you’ll need additional materials to ensure watertight seals.
The pitch of your roof means finding out how steep your roof is, the steeper the roof pitch, the more dangerous the job. This is a significant reason to hire a professional. Each year, thousands of people end up in emergency rooms due to falls from their roof.
Looking at the danger side of the estimate, the height of your roof plays into this cost. The higher your roof is, the farther they fall. If you’re re-roofing a single-story home, your estimate may be less than if you’re re-roofing a 3 story home.
Selecting Roofing Materials
The selection of materials for your roof replacement will be a huge factor in your overall price. Not only do the different materials change your cost, but the quality of those materials can shift your numbers.
- Flat Roofs This roof style is common. This process involves rolling out gravel like sheets of material and using a propane tank and heat wand to melt the tar-like adhesive, sealing it to your roof base. It is mostly used in arid climates and allow the roof space to be used as a living space or a living room
- Shingle Roofs This is the most common form of roofing material, not only for Florida but most of the nation. Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace for minor repairs. Architectural shingles are also an option, though carry a higher price. This is also the lightest weight option.
- Tile Roofs Heavy and labor intensive, this roofing option is on the more expensive side. But if it’s in the budget, the results can be stunning. Tile roofs require special equipment to raise the tiles up to the rooftop and can be limited by accessibility. They can be installed in intricate and beautiful designs to create an absolute showstopping roof.
- Metal Roofs For weatherproofing your home, metal roofs lead the pack. They do require special equipment and training to install but may withstand the rough weather Florida is known for. Most metal roof options come pre-treated for corrosion resistance. Metal roofing is impervious to water damage when it’s installed correctly.
Hiring A Roofing Professional
When the cards are all out on the table, a roof replacement is a huge job. It comes with heavy expenses and even heavier materials. The successful installation of your roof will dictate costs for home maintenance for decades down the road.
The task can be dangerous, and carry with it lasting damages if done wrong. The only insurance company we want to see you need is your homeowner’s insurance helping to pay for the replacement (speak with your insurance agent to discuss this possibility). Peace of mind is worth the roof replacement cost.
Tornado Roofing & Contracting are experienced building contractors that will ensure the installation of a roof that will protect your home for quite some time to come. Give us a call to schedule a consultation.
